Recommending children's books and other resources for babies through 6th grade and occasionally just stuff.

Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Chapter Books - Here Lies the Librarian

I know, I know. I previously mentioned this book back on the 4th of May. But at that time I still hadn't put my little hands around the cover and opened it for my own eyes to savor. Now my husband who stops by occasionally to see what I have written about noticed the write up and decided I needed to have this book. Did I mention he is the most thoughtful man and I am so fortunate to have snagged him? Well, anyway I have now officially read the book. The good thing is it is great. The bad thing is I kept getting caught up with background and setting for the story (my issue though not the book's). Being a long life Hoosier and one from central Indiana makes me especially keen on books that feature this lovely place I call home. Peck does a great job with the story and Eleanor (which was my grandmother's name and another tie to home) is one spunky girl (like my grandmother).

As the story unfolds it becomes a fast moving tale and matches backwoods living with new "fangled" ideas of industrial progress. The lady librarians (young adults) who sweep into town after a devastating tornado captivate and help strengthen the cause, in their own small yet stylish way, for libraries. Each of the women demonstrates some strength in library science skills and made me cheer them on. Yet, they are really only a subset of the story. The story really centers on Eleanor (Peewee) and her relationship with her brother and their changing lives. Of course, being set in Indiana you have to throw in a bit of racing to keep the ole' tradition going. Plus, for those not aware Indiana, especially Indianapolis, use to be one of the top car manufacturing areas in the country thus producing the now famous 500. Well before Detroit was, well Detroit.

Although the main character is a girl of 14 on the verge of "growing up", it has a number of appealing aspects that boys would enjoy. Some of these include the obvious racing, mechanics, car manufacturing, and outsmarting bullies. Oh, and let's not forget the tornado unearthed residents of the cemetery. As indicated earlier the recommended age range is all over the map. My personal opinion is that it would work for just about anyone 10 and up. Those from Indiana will feel a special connection as well.

3 Comments:

mjd said...

This sounds like a book that I need to read with librarians, Indiana, an Eleanor, and your recommendation. I have just finished another book that you recommended, Hoot, which is a fine story complete with owls as well as a few of your favorite alligators.

Book Ratings

An occasional rating will appear with a book review and these are the explanations. The disclaimer is: These ratings are just my personal opinions and story preferences and not to be taken as some book guru decree.

About Me

With fond memories of years in the library as a kid, I finally indulged myself late in life and earned a Master’s in Library Science with a focus on children’s and electronic services. Of course, this was after about 15 years where I actually used my business degree and “counted beans”, but then remembered I liked books much better, especially children’s literature. In addition, I have spent a few years in an elementary school library after which I put on a read aloud program for 1st through 3rd graders. Here I am offering my knowledge of children’s books and resources to help those looking for something special or just a fun read. Don’t forget to check out the book resources listed for other ideas.